Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Director Al
Roshdieh today released a refreshed Sustainability Policy for the department
that provides a framework for creating an even more sustainable transportation
system. Sustainability in this context is much broader than consideration of
environmental impacts. It is a holistic approach that balances the impact of
our actions on the environment, economy and society. MCDOT has also
incorporated education and outreach efforts as a sustainability goal to i nform
residents, businesses and visitors of the importance of their choices in
supporting a sustainable future.

“The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT)
recognizes that the County’s expanding transportation system has far-reaching
impacts,” said Roshdieh. “The way our streets are planned, the range of
available transportation options, and the way in which projects are constructed
and maintained all influence our environment, physical health, economic
well-being, social cohesion and the resiliency of neighborhoods over time.
These broader issues are at the heart of MCDOT’s sustainability goals that
guide our programs, designs and policies.”

MCDOT is committed to fully incorporating sustainable policies in
our strategic approach and the goals are outlined below:

Environment: Plan and implement a transportation system that broadly considers
ecosystem and climate impacts, reduces and prevents waste and pollution, uses
renewable resources and sustainable sources of energy, and reduces energy
consumption.

Economy: Support a public transportation infrastructure that stimulates
economic prosperity, promotes economic development and is cost effective and
efficient.

Society: Provide a system that is accessible, affordable, safe and secure,
equitable, and improves the health and quality of life for people who use it
and live near it. Consider the basic needs of diverse residents and businesses
and provide access and mobility for all. Give back to communities by
volunteering and donating resources.

Education: Ensure that residents, businesses and visitors are well informed
about their sustainable travel options, help them make more sustainable
decisions in their daily lives and support them in their choices.

Creating a sustainable transportation network is embodied in
MCDOT’s mission, vision and guiding principles. These core values provide the
framework for the Sustainability Policy that will help MCDOT achieve a
first-rate, multimodal system. The Sustainability Policy outlines strategic
objectives for each of MCDOT’s five mission-oriented guiding principles based
on the four sustainability goals. See below.

A seamless transportation system for people of all ages, incomes
and abilities that supports a vibrant and sustainable community.

MCDOT’s Mission:

To move people and connect places with the best transportation
choices and services.

Guiding Principles:

• Provide an effective and efficient transportation system

• Keep our system reliable, safe and secure

• Engage and support our diverse community

• Enhance quality of life

• Be innovative and forward-thinking

“Through innovative approaches, we are creating a 21st century
system that moves more people in fewer vehicles,” said Roshdieh. “A sustainable
future means a higher quality of life for everyone in Montgomery County -- now
and for generations to come.”

MCDOT will have an exhibit at GreenFest, which will be held
Saturday, April 30 at the Takoma Park Community Center. Roshdieh will be a
panelist at a workshop sponsored by Poolesville Green, GreenWheaton, Bethesda
Green and Silver Spring Green on sustainable transportation in Montgomery
County.

In addition, MCDOT is a co-sponsor of an environmental scavenger
hunt, is featuring a hybrid electric Ride On bus in the electric car show, and
is sponsoring an awards ceremony for its annual photography contest and
landscape beautification competition winners. The awards will be presented at
Piney Branch Elementary School at 1:30 p.m.